Experience · Arusha · On the water
Canoeing on the Momella Lakes
See Arusha National Park from the water. A guided canoe trip on Small Momella Lake brings you quietly close to waterbirds, with giraffe and buffalo grazing on the shore and Mount Meru rising behind.
Enquire about this experienceDuration
About 2 hours on the water
Starts from
Arusha National Park, from Arusha or Moshi
Best time
Year-round, calmest in the morning
Ideal for
Couples, families and birders
A quiet paddle
The Momella Lakes are a group of shallow, alkaline lakes in the north-east of Arusha National Park, each a slightly different colour depending on the minerals and algae in the water. Small Momella is the lake used for canoeing. After a briefing from your canoe guide, you paddle at an easy pace along the shoreline, where you may see waterbirds such as herons, grebes and ducks, and, at times, flamingos feeding in the shallows. Because you approach silently, animals on the shore often carry on grazing undisturbed, and the reflections of Mount Meru on calm mornings are beautiful. No experience is needed and life jackets are provided. Canoeing combines well with a walking safari or a game drive on the same day.
Your experience
How it unfolds
Usually booked as part of a day in Arusha National Park.
08:30 · Arrive at the lakes
Drive through the park to the canoe base at Small Momella Lake.
08:45 · Briefing
Meet your canoe guide, fit life jackets and learn the basics.
09:00 · On the water
Paddle along the shore past waterbirds and grazing animals.
09:45 · Middle of the lake
Stop to take in the views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro on clear days.
10:30 · Back on shore
Return to the canoe base for a drink.
11:00 · Continue
Join a walking safari or game drive for the rest of the day.
Included
— Canoe and paddles
— Life jackets
— Canoe guide
— Canoeing fees
Not included
— Arusha National Park entry fees
— Tips
— Travel insurance
Book this experience
Tell us your date and we will plan a full day in Arusha National Park around the canoe trip.
Enquire now